Journal of biomechanics
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Journal of biomechanics · Aug 1999
Effect of bone quality on the forces generated by compression screws.
Internal fixation of the fractured scaphoid bone is used to promote union between bone fragments and to decrease wrist immobilization. Headless screws are commonly used because they minimize interference with articular surfaces and reduce tissue irritation and immobilization. In the present experiment, compressive force was measured as a function of bone quality for two headless screw types, the Herbert and the Acutrak. ⋯ Regression analysis indicated that similar correlations did not exist between force and BMD or between force and density for the Herbert screw. The correlation shown by the Acutrak screw indicates that it may be a more predictable as well as more effective system and therefore there may be some advantage in selecting this system. Furthermore, results suggest that the Acutrak screw generates greater forces with increasing bone density and could be more effective for a younger population.